It occurred to me the other night, as I ran through Bree, that in the real world I’d never run like that. From the bank to the hobby shop. I could. I’ve got shoes. I could make the run. But I don’t.

Likewise, in Bree, I could walk from the bank to the crafting hall. I could. I would use the insert key and slow down to something one might identify as “Not Being Chased by Orcs” speed. But I don’t.

I guess once it’s someone else doing the running it’s no big deal. I know if I had an army of minions and we were in a fast paced environment, I’d be very put out if they weren’t running hither and thither at my behest. “The keeps door has just been smashed down by someone in a holocaust cloak and you’re going to walk to it’s defense?? Don’t get winded and drink plenty of water. And be safe.” No, I’d be screaming “RUN YOU FOOLS! No, the other way!”

Even though the towns are really small in these online games, they’re still way too big to tolerate at a walkers pace. Rift’s recent update included the ability to ride one’s mount indoors. Sure, it’s technically possible in real life too, but when you go to meet your racial leader, don’t you think you can do so on foot, and not clop up to them on some horse? Maybe have some “Show some respect” zones where folks are dismounted, and slowed to a walk.